Skate Early Access Review: Unleashing the Thrills of Next-Gen Skateboarding

EA’s official Skate FAQ emphasizes that the 2025 early access version is not a sequel, remake, or remaster. They describe it as an evolution of the Skate franchise. While this statement holds some truth, many fans feel that this new iteration strays far from the essence of the late-2000s originals. Instead of capturing the spirit that drew many players in, it seems to have adapted to a more sanitized, monetized format typical of modern free-to-play games.

Strengths of the New Skate

That said, there are also some commendable aspects to the new Skate. The sound design is exceptional. From the hiss of wheels on pavement to the clinking of metal, the audio creates an immersive skateboarding atmosphere. This attention to detail creates a rhythm that’s almost meditative when you’re skating smoothly.

The gameplay itself retains a familiar feel. Skate’s control scheme allows for a mix of tricks and maneuvering that’s engaging and intuitive, making it appealing for both newcomers and returning players.

A Shift in Experience

However, it’s hard to ignore the significant changes that come with this new version. The online-only experience feels like a misstep. Many players have reported being disconnected during sessions, which detracts significantly from the enjoyment.

The reliance on daily online challenges, much like a live service model, can be frustrating. Instead of offering deep, engaging content, it often feels like a series of mundane tasks recycled every 24 hours.

Diminished Personality

Moreover, the game’s personality seems stripped away. Gone are the quirky characters with relatable interactions that players loved in the originals. Instead, players are greeted by an AI character called Vee, whose dialogue lacks authenticity and is laden with cringe-worthy phrases. This shift towards a more corporate, sanitized narrative is noticeable and off-putting.

For instance, Skate’s new city, San Vansterdam, lacks the gritty, lived-in feel of previous titles. The simplistic art style and flat landscapes seem more like a generic skatepark than a vibrant urban environment. Players have expressed disappointment, noting that it feels less like a city where one can skate and more like a collection of skateboarding spots.

Historical Context

Historically, Skate has always embraced a certain raw edge. The original games showcased not just the fun of skating but also the reality of the sport’s risks, including the humorous moments of falls and injuries. In contrast, the new game embraces an unrealistic, risk-free environment, claiming that players are immune to injuries through a fictional tech called “ImpervaTEK.” This choice may stem from a desire to appeal to a younger audience but feels like a betrayal to those who remember the original’s charm.

Community Reaction and Current State

The online community has reacted with mixed feelings. Many nostalgic players are left longing for the depth and character of the past. While some enjoy the new mechanics, the overarching sentiment is one of disappointment regarding personality and engagement.

Approximately 100 songs make up the early access jukebox, but most tracks come from the last few years, leaving much of the classic sound behind. This may alienate older fans seeking that nostalgic connection to the Skate series.

Conclusion

In essence, the new Skate attempts to modernize but struggles to maintain the soul that defined the series. While it carries over some beloved gameplay mechanics and sound design, the lack of depth, engaging narrative, and community-driven content leaves fans yearning for the original’s charm. The relationship between gameplay and monetization is apparent, suggesting that perhaps this evolution might have missed the mark.

For those interested in exploring the details, you can check out EA’s official FAQ here.

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